Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience! This Ham and Cheese Macaroni Bake isn't just another pasta dish - it's a creamy, cheesy, flavor-packed journey that will have your family begging for seconds. Imagine perfectly cooked macaroni, tender diced ham, sweet green peas, and a golden, crispy breadcrumb topping that creates the ultimate comfort food. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing dish for potlucks, this recipe is about to become your new go-to favorite.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups cooked ham, diced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your macaroni bake cooks evenly and thoroughly.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 7-8 minutes. Once cooked, drain the macaroni and set it aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, diced ham, frozen peas, and 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- In another bowl, whisk together the milk, salt, and black pepper until well combined. Pour this mixture over the macaroni and ham mixture, stirring gently to combine all ingredients.
- Transfer the macaroni mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the macaroni mixture. Then, evenly sprinkle the breadcrumbs on top of the cheese for a crunchy texture.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Once done, remove the baking dish from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This will help the dish set a bit and make it easier to serve.
- Serve the Ham and Cheese Macaroni Bake warm, and enjoy your delicious, comforting meal!
Tips
- For extra flavor, consider using smoked ham or adding a dash of garlic powder to the milk mixture.
- Use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-packaged for a smoother, more melted texture.
- If you like a crispier top, broil the dish for 2-3 minutes at the end of cooking, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Make it ahead! This dish can be assembled and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free panko or crushed gluten-free crackers.
- Don't overcook the pasta - aim for al dente, as it will continue cooking in the oven.
- Let the dish rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to allow the cheese to set and make serving easier.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 19g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 55mg
